Republican Convention: Melania Trump appeals for racial unity

By Vatican News

On the second day of the Republican party convention, First Lady Melania Trump took to the podium against the backdrop of the White House Rose Garden, making a plea for racial harmony.

Her speech came amid racial unrest that has engulfed the country since the death of black man, George Floyd, who was pinned under the knee of a white police officer in Minnesota.

Only this week there were more protests after another black man was shot and left paralyzed by police in Wisconsin.

Racial Unity

"I urge people to come together in a civil manner so we can work and live up to our standard American ideals," Mrs Trump said.

She also called on people to stop the “violence and looting being done in the name of justice and never make assumptions based on the colour of a person's skin."

"Like all of you”, the First Lady said, “I have reflected on the racial unrest in our country.”

"It is a harsh reality that we are not proud of parts of our history. I encourage you to focus on the future while still learning from the past."

Coronavirus

In her speech, Melania Trump also expressed her sympathy for victims of the COVID-19 pandemic.

"My deepest sympathy”, she said, “goes out to everyone who has lost a loved one."

"And my prayers are with those who are ill or suffering. I know many people are anxious and some feel helpless. I want you to know: You're not alone."

The novel coronavirus has killed more than 178,000 people in the U.S. and the President’s wife acknowledged that since March “our lives have changed drastically."

Of her husband, Mrs Trump said, “you have a president who will not stop fighting for you and your families.” 

In her role as First Lady over the last four years, Melania Trump has promoted a number of causes including the “Be Best” public awareness campaign, which focuses on well-being for youth, and advocating against cyberbullying and drug (particularly opioid) use.

This second day of the convention also featured President Trump’s children Eric and Tiffany as well as a pre-recorded appearance by US Secretary of State, Mike Pompeo.